The DSA (Driving standards agency) is a large government body that’s concerned with many aspects of road transport in this country.. including road safety.

As a Learner Driver you will be aware of them mainly because they are in charge of the Driving Tests, both the theory test and the practical test. They also publish a lot of educational material to help you build your knowledge and prepare for the tests.

Their vision and mission statement is built around the phrase “Safe Driving for Life”. The DSA sets the standards for new drivers (you!) and for the quality of driving instructors (me!). They also carry out the registration of all Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs).

The DSA have a great website http://www.dsa.gov.uk where you can book both theory and practical tests online.  This site has a host of information and features that will be very useful to you as a Learner Driver, including detailed information on the theory test and it even allows the opportunity to practice the theory test online.

The DSA and ADIs

The DSA also sets the standards and runs the tests for other groups of road users.. Motorcycles Lorries etc. and for Driving instructors (ADIs). First through a series of tests to make sure they are competent to teach and then by continual testing and grading. The DSA is also guiding ADIs on a program of professional development. ADIs need to have a police check before they are registered and allowed to teach.